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Theater to host pet trick contest

Taking a page out of Late Show star David Letterman's playbook, the Triumvirate Theatre is calling for audition tapes for its upcoming "Not So Stupid Pet Trick Contest."

"We thought it would be fun for people to show off what their pets can do," said organizer Paulene Rizzo.

The inaugural Late Show segment featured a dog that could sneeze on command, and another dog that would answer the phone. Rizzo said she is hoping for similar talent from within the community, and videos with anything from dancing dogs, retrieving cats, talking birds, or pigs and rabbits with a special talents, are welcome.

"We know how animal people are. They're fanatics. So we want to see what we've got going on in our community," she said.

Audition tapes, sent not later than Saturday, can be mailed to 10672 Kenai Spur Highway, STE 112 #174, Kenai, AK 99611, or dropped off at Triumvirate Bookstore in the Peninsula Center Mall anytime between noon and 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Video tapes should include a phone number and e-mail.

"From the videos, a panel will select 10 contestants, and then they'll have to audition to make sure their pets will perform," Rizzo said.

Performance of a contestant will be limited to five minutes, and no aggressive animals will be allowed on the premises.

The contest will be used as a fundraising event to benefit local animals. As such, the final 10 contestant will be asked to donate $10 to perform with their pets, and tickets will be sold for $5 for people to see the finalists perform at the Triumvirate on Aug. 19 at 7 p.m.

However, as Letterman would say, "Remember, this is not a competition, it is only an exhibition please, no wagering," although Rizzo said winners will receive pet-related prizes.

For more information on the Not So Stupid Pet Trick Contest, call Paulene Rizzo at 907-776-1163.

Joseph Robertia can be reached at joseph.robertia@peninsulaclarion.com.